Animal Update: Giant Isopod

A giant isopod has been added to our Surviving Through Adaptation exhibit.

Published July 14, 2017

Giant isopods are native to the Pacific Ocean, and are found off the coast of Japan and in the South China Sea. They can survive in the deepest parts of the ocean—up to 7,020 feet.

Living up to their name, giant isopods grow to be approximately 14 inches in length—much larger than their smaller isopod relatives, which typically reach a length of 2 inches. These carnivores feed on smaller live animals or dead animals that sink to the ocean floor. Giant isopods can go for long periods of time without eating and will gorge themselves until their next meal.

According to fossil records, giant isopods existed 160 million years ago! Over the years, they have adapted to their deep, dark homes by using their antennae to move around and find food.